Barcelona president Joan Laporta has voiced his full support for manager Xavier Hernandez despite the club’s recent indifferent form.
The defending La Liga champions initially made a decent start to the season before suffering a 2-1 league loss at home to arch-rivals Real Madrid. However, they managed to bounce back with a 1-0 victory against Real Sociedad in their next outing.
Their momentum was subsequently derailed by a 2-1 UEFA Champions League loss at Shakhtar Donetsk, which has delayed their chances of qualifying for the knockouts. Nevertheless, Barca remains in a strong position to navigate the league phase, leading Porto on goal difference after four games.
During a visit to the under-renovation Camp Nou stadium, Laporta told Mundo Deportivo (via Barca Universal) that he believes Xavi has performed well this campaign. He emphasized his complete backing for the coach, praising Xavi for his professional and human qualities.
Despite criticism over Barcelona’s lack of a distinct style of play, Laporta pointed out that injuries to key players have also contributed to the club’s recent struggles. Several players, including Raphinha, Sergi Roberto, Frenkie de Jong, Robert Lewandowski, Gavi, and Lamine Yamal, have missed games due to injury or suspension, impacting the team’s on-field performances.
However, Laporta noted in the same interview that most of the injured players are expected to return soon, giving Xavi a full complement of personnel to choose from.
Barcelona will return to action after the international break with a La Liga match against Rayo Vallecano on November 25.
